VANCOUVER, Jan. 22, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable James Moore, Minister of
Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today presented 25 Queen
Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medals to distinguished British Columbians
who are making a difference in their communities.

The Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal was created to celebrate
the 60th anniversary of the accession to the Throne as Queen of Canada of Her
Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The Medal is a tangible way for Canada to
honour Her Majesty for her service to this country. At the same time,
it serves to honour significant contributions and achievements by
Canadians.

"I am very proud to present Diamond Jubilee Medals to these recipients.
These Canadians are an inspiration to us all, and their contributions
have made Canada a better place to live," said Minister Moore. "Our
Government is proud to invest in commemorations like the Diamond
Jubilee that contribute to our collective identity and define who we
are as Canadians. On the road to 2017, when Canada will celebrate its
150th anniversary, let us celebrate all of the things that make Canada the
united, strong, and free country we are today."

The following citizens were presented the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond
Jubilee Medal:

A total of 60,000 Diamond Jubilee Medals are being awarded to Canadians.
Presentations took place throughout 2012 and will continue until
February 28, 2013, the date when the program closes. To be eligible, a
person must be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada.
They must have made a significant contribution to a particular
province, territory, region, or community within Canada, or an
achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.

The medal program is administered by the Chancellery of Honours, which
is part of the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General.

For more information about how the Government of Canada is celebrating
the Diamond Jubilee, visit www.canadiancrown.gc.ca. For details about the Diamond Jubilee Medal, visit www.gg.ca.